The 2024 Community Energy Congress brought together more than 230 people in Sydney, with additional participants joining online and through regional hubs across Australia. Held at the ICC in Darling Harbour and co‑located with the Smart Energy Expo, this year’s Congress introduced new innovations: a hybrid format, shared viewing hubs, and close integration with leading solar, storage, EV and smart‑energy exhibitors. These changes enabled broader participation and strengthened connections between community groups and the wider energy industry.

The Congress focused on how community participation can accelerate Australia’s urgent transition to renewable energy. Leaders from communities, government, infrastructure providers and business gathered to explore practical strategies, share tools, and highlight the critical role of local action in shaping a fair and fast energy transition. Sessions featured innovative thinkers, strategic discussions, project showcases and hands‑on learning designed to support the rapidly expanding community energy sector.

Participants represented a wide range of backgrounds — from policy, councils and NGOs to energy retailing, distribution, finance and grassroots community groups. The Congress emphasised collaboration, knowledge‑sharing and the importance of community approval in driving the pace of change.

As the sector’s defining event, Congress 2024 strengthened networks, showcased leading projects, and reinforced the vital contribution of community energy in building a renewable‑powered future.